Richard James Spottiswood, 33, of Canterbury Way, Jarrow, and Lucy Burn, 29, of Burns Close, South Shields, were initially charged with attempted murder, but they are now accused of his murder.

Appearing via video link from HMP Durham at Newcastle Crown Court today, Spottiswood entered a plea of not guilty. Burn appeared at the same hearing, via video link from HMP Low Newton, but did not enter a plea.

A further pre-trial hearing will take place on Tuesday, November 14, while a trial, expected to last around 10 days, has been listed for Monday, January 8, next year. Spottiswood and Burn have been remanded in custody.